Fecal Egg Count (FEC) testing is a vital tool for determining when to worm our animals, helping to avoid unnecessary treatments and manage parasite resistance. Here’s a short guide on when to perform FEC testing:

Regular Monitoring (Seasonal) 

For ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats), conduct FEC testing every 3 to 4 months during grazing seasons, especially in warm, wet months. In high-risk areas, consider testing monthly or bi-monthly. 

When You Notice Symptoms

If animals show signs of parasitic infections—such as weight loss, diarrhoea, or poor coat condition—perform an FEC to confirm the cause before worming.

Before Worming

Conduct an FEC before administering wormers to avoid unnecessary treatments. If the FEC result is low, worming may not be needed.

After Worming

Test a 10-14 days post-treatment to assess effectiveness. Persistent high FEC levels may indicate resistance to the wormer.

Young Animals 

For young animals (lambs, kids, calves), conduct FEC testing early in the grazing season, as they are more susceptible to infections. 

High-Risk Situations

In situations such as the introduction of new animals to the herd or flock, moving to new pastures, overcrowding, or stress, perform FEC testing to identify issues early.

Key Considerations:

Environment - Conduct more tests during wet months when parasites thrive.

Animal Age and Health - Young or weak animals may need more frequent testing.

Farming Practices - Techniques like rotational and cross-grazing can help reduce parasite load. 

Regular FEC testing allows us to make informed decisions about worming, reducing resistance, ensuring the health of your livestock and saving money